Cupressaceae Juniperus scopulorum Sarg.

Rocky Mountain Juniper

Thompson - Drug, Disinfectant

Use documented by:
Turner, Nancy J., Laurence C. Thompson and M. Terry Thompson et al., 1990, Thompson Ethnobotany: Knowledge and Usage of Plants by the Thompson Indians of British Columbia, Victoria. Royal British Columbia Museum, page 92

View all documented uses for Juniperus scopulorum Sarg.

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Scientific name: Juniperus scopulorum Sarg.
USDA symbol: JUSC2 (View details at USDA PLANTS site)
Common names: Rocky Mountain Juniper
Family: Cupressaceae
Family (APG): Cupressaceae
Native American Tribe: Thompson
Use category: Drug
Use sub-category: Disinfectant
Notes: Decoction or infusion of plant used to disinfect the house after an illness or death. The decoction was used to scrub the floors, walls and furniture after an illness or death in the house. It was also used to wash the deceased person's bedding and clothing as well as serving as a protective wash for other members of the household. The steam from the infusion was also said to have a disinfecting effect. If they knew that an illness was going to arrive, they broke the branches and burned them in the house for the strong smoke which they said would keep the air fresh so that the sickness would not affect them. They also burned the branches after a death in the house to freshen the air.

RECRD: 32086 id: 19045

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